Cleave Simpson

Cleave Simpson is a prominent American politician currently serving as a member of the Colorado State Senate, representing District 6. A member of the Republican Party, he has been active in Colorado's political landscape and has held various roles throughout his career. Simpson's background as a farmer and rancher, combined with his educational qualifications and leadership positions, have shaped his approach to governance and policy-making. He has been involved in local governance and water conservation efforts, reflecting his commitment to the needs of his constituents in the San Luis Valley.

Early life and career

Cleave Simpson was born in the early 1960s in Alamosa, Colorado, where he has deep roots in the community. He is a fourth-generation farmer and rancher, which has significantly influenced his perspective on agricultural and environmental issues. Growing up in the San Luis Valley, Simpson developed a strong connection to the land and the agricultural practices that have sustained his family for generations. This background has provided him with firsthand experience regarding the challenges and opportunities faced by rural communities in Colorado.

Simpson pursued higher education at the Colorado School of Mines, where he graduated in 1984. His education equipped him with a solid foundation in engineering and resource management, which has been beneficial in his subsequent career. After completing his degree, he took on the role of general manager at the Rio Grande Water Conservation District. In this capacity, he has been responsible for overseeing water management and conservation efforts in the region, which is particularly important given the agricultural focus of the area and the ongoing challenges related to water resources in the West.

In addition to his role in water conservation, Simpson has been involved in educational governance. He served on the Board of Trustees for Adams State University from 2015 to 2020. This position allowed him to contribute to the oversight and strategic direction of the university, which plays a significant role in the educational landscape of the San Luis Valley. His experiences in both water management and education have informed his legislative priorities and his approach to serving his constituents.

Legislative service

Cleave Simpson's legislative career began when he was elected to the Colorado State Senate, where he initially represented the former District 35 before the redistricting process in 2020. Following the redistricting, he now serves District 6. His tenure in the Senate has been marked by a focus on issues that resonate with the needs of his district, particularly those related to agriculture, water resources, and rural development.

In the 2020 Republican primary election for Colorado's 35th Senate District, Simpson ran unopposed, which allowed him to secure his position without facing any challengers within his party. His campaign in the general election was successful, as he defeated his Democratic opponent, garnering a significant majority of the votes cast. This victory underscored his appeal to the electorate and his ability to connect with the concerns of his constituents.

Simpson's commitment to public service was further demonstrated when he sought re-election in 2024. In the Republican primary held in June 2024, he again ran unopposed, indicating strong support within his party. The general election took place in November 2024, where he faced Democratic candidate Vivian Smotherman. Simpson won the election with a majority of the votes, reaffirming his position as a key representative for District 6.

In June 2025, Simpson was elected as the minority leader of the Colorado State Senate. This leadership role reflects his influence within the legislative body and his capacity to guide discussions and decisions on key issues. As minority leader, he is responsible for representing the interests of his party and coordinating legislative strategies among Republican senators.

Policy focus and district

Cleave Simpson's policy focus is closely aligned with the interests of his constituents in District 6, which encompasses a diverse range of communities in the San Luis Valley. Given his background in agriculture and water management, he prioritizes issues related to water conservation, agricultural sustainability, and rural economic development. These areas are critical for the livelihoods of many residents in his district, where farming and ranching play a vital role in the local economy.

Simpson's work with the Rio Grande Water Conservation District has provided him with valuable insights into the complexities of water management in Colorado. The state faces ongoing challenges related to water scarcity, particularly in the context of climate change and increasing demand for water resources. As a legislator, Simpson advocates for policies that promote effective water management practices, support agricultural needs, and ensure the sustainability of water resources for future generations.

In addition to water issues, Simpson is also focused on enhancing educational opportunities in his district. His experience on the Board of Trustees for Adams State University informs his approach to education policy, as he recognizes the importance of accessible and quality education for the region's youth. He supports initiatives that aim to improve educational outcomes and provide resources for students and educators alike.

Simpson's legislative efforts also extend to economic development initiatives that aim to bolster the local economy and create job opportunities in the San Luis Valley. He understands the unique challenges faced by rural communities and works to promote policies that encourage investment and growth in the region. This includes supporting small businesses and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship.

Overall, Cleave Simpson's career as a state legislator reflects his commitment to serving the needs of his constituents in Colorado's District 6. His background in agriculture, water management, and education informs his policy priorities and legislative actions. As he continues to serve in the Colorado State Senate, Simpson remains focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities that define the San Luis Valley, ensuring that the voices of his constituents are heard in the legislative process.